Categories

The Pursuit of 100

The Most Excellent, Yet Elusive Number

In grammar school, we are encouraged to strive for perfection. Our papers were often graded with A, B, or C marks and depending on your performance, you may also earn a “+” or “-” symbol with these grades. The basis of these grades are often measured against a 100-point scale with a A+ being the prestigious mark of perfection (or the elusive 100).

As we move forward, way forward in life … almost as if we take a Delorean from Back to the Future and head 50 years into the future, we suddenly become focused on earning 100 again. However, this time 100 relates to both our blood oxygen levels or glucose levels. Our focus shifts from earnings an A to maintaining a 100 blood oxygen level, which is measured by a pulse oximeter. We focus on our blood oxygen levels later in our life, because the amount of oxygen in our blood diminishes as we become older. Similar to earning a B in grammar school, any mark below a 90 is not ideal. Once again, we are encouraged to strive for 100% excellence (or close to it).

The pursuit for 100 continues as we turn our focus on daily living. For any Type One Diabetic, as well as Type Two Diabetics and even non-Diabetics, maintaining 100 blood sugar level is ideal. 100 means we have enough sugar or glucose in our blood system, but not too much. Similar to a sycophant (kiss ass) who continually turns in too much extra credit in grammar school, a blood sugar level over 100 is not ideal. Contrarily, a C or D blood sugar level of 70 or 60 is not ideal either. And if we fail with a F or blood sugar level below 50, we better study some more (AKA get some sugar in our blood system fast). Even as a non-Diabetic, I can even feel the effects of dropping below 100 when I have not eating enough for the day, or I exercised too much and my glucose levels have dropped.

In grammar school, we had to work to earn excellent grades in order to move to the next level. The more effort and dedication we put on our studies, the higher grades we generally earned. As we earned better grades, more doors opened, such as college admission letters and job offers. Similar to studying hard in grammar school, focusing on diet, exercise, and the proper insulin dosages helps Type One Diabetics maintain a glucose level of around 100. When 100 is maintained, the quality of life is ideal.

I’m proud of my wife, her sister, and other Type Ones who constantly make the effort to maintain this elusive 100 number with their blood sugar levels. I know it’s not easy. They are required to study and take daily exams in the form of finger pricks, exercise, and proper diet to help stay around this level. However, their diligence allows them to live a healthy, active, and adventurous lives.

Hopefully, as medical advancements progress, it will be easier to maintain this 100 level for all Type One Diabetics and Type Two Diabetics. As we advance, let’s continue stay focused and determined on reaching and maintaining the excellent, yet elusive 100!